Transport for London plans Supreme Court intervention over private hire vehicle regulations

Transport for London (TfL) has announced its intention to apply for permission to intervene in a significant Supreme Court appeal concerning private hire vehicle (PHV) services. The appeal, initiated by Uber Britannia Limited, revolves around the interpretation of key legislation: the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 and its interaction with the Private Hire Vehicles (London) Act 1998.

This case, originally heard in the High Court as Delta Merseyside Ltd & Veezu Holdings Ltd v Uber Britannia Limited, carries potential implications for PHV regulations both within and outside London. TfL has emphasized its concern that differing interpretations of these laws could lead to substantial discrepancies in regulatory and enforcement practices across the UK, potentially impacting passenger safety.

Helen Chapman, Director of Licensing and Regulation at TfL, outlined the agency’s rationale for intervening, citing the need to assist the Court in understanding the legal relationship between PHV operators and passengers under both Acts. TfL plans to argue for a unified construction of these laws and advocate for a contractual agreement between passengers and PHV operators to enhance public safety.

TfL has reached out to relevant stakeholders, including the Local Government Association, to highlight the importance of this appeal and ensure awareness among licensing authorities nationwide.

Read the letter.